With the closing of the gap in the non-motorized path down Washtenaw Avenue, walkers and cyclists will soon have a straight shot down this busy artery. The city of Ann Arbor is planning to open the newly constructed 1.1-mile section of path between Glenwood Road and Toumy Roads to traffic on August 15.
This safety path is another component of the city's alternative transportation plan, says Anne Warrow, project manager for the city of Ann Arbor. "There are numerous bus stops in the area that we need to provide access to."
The $1.5 million project was funded with $748,000 in combined federal transportation enhancement and surface transportation funds, with the city covering the balance.
Landscaping is the final component. Sixteen varieties of trees and shrubs, a total of 60 in all, will be planted in October, Warrow says.
The sidewalk is still officially closed, but it's getting some hoof traffic nonetheless. She adds, "I've already noticed that people are using it even though we have barricades at both ends."
Source: Anne Warrow, project manager for the city of Ann Arbor
Writer: Tanya Muzumdar
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